Dog Bite Warning Signs

About 4.5 million Americans suffer dog bite injuries every year.

Knowing what dog bite warnings signs to be alert for can help save lives and avert serious dog bite injuries. Learning what warning signs to look for and how to avoid situations that may result in a dog attack are important parts of being a good dog owner. However, anyone that wishes to interact with a dog should have at least a basic knowledge of dog bite warning signs to be aware of.

Dog Bite Warning Signs

In nearly all cases, dogs will issue some type of warning sign before attacking. Any dog can be provoked to attack, even the most even-tempered and well-trained dogs have a breaking point. In cases where the dog attack victim feels that the dog attacked without warning, the individual often did not recognize subtle warning signs.

Subtle Warning Signs

Dog bite warning signs that are often missed include:

Dog turns its head away from person or animal

Dog walks away from person or animal

Dog looks at owner with sad or annoyed expression

Dog yawns while person or animal is approaching

Dog starts scratching or biting itself while interacting with person or animal

Dog licks chops while interacting with person or animal

Growling or Aggression

In many cases, even after displaying subtle warning signs, dogs will continue to be patient. The dog will often make the irritation more prominently known by growling or showing visible signs of agitation or aggression before attacking. One sign that veterinary clinics and animal shelters often look for is the whites of the eyes. If a dog feels threatened, it will often position itself so that the head is lowered and the eyes are raised, making the whites of the eyes clearly visible.

Dog bite warning signs that may be more recognizable include:

Growling

Barking and snapping

Rigid body

Tail high and wagging quickly without other body movement

Tucked tail

Raised fur

Head lowered with eyes raised

Reasons for Dog Attacks

Healthy and well balanced dogs will typically not attack without a reason. However, many people do not understand canine logic and will inadvertently provoke dogs. Understanding the reasons behind dog attacks can help to prevent dog bite injuries.